USDA spotlights grants for ‘socially disadvantaged’

Small farmers coming from socially disadvantaged backgrounds are taking advantage of a federal program. Judith Canales with USDA Rural Development says in Wisconsin, the Verona-based Spring Rose Growers Cooperative is among those which have benefitted.

The Cooperative is made up of Latino, Hmong and woman farmers who’ve used farmers markets to help in “food deserts,” places where not many healthy groceries are available.

“This is a group that is obviously very active already in Wisconsin and is trying to take their efforts to the next level,” said Canales.

Canales joined reporters on a conference call to promote the Ag department’s rural development efforts. She also plugged $2.5 million in Rural Business Opportunity Grants, eligible for companies in 27 states including Wisconsin.